Asian Standard, one of the UK’s largest South Asian news platforms, marked its first-ever Diwali networking event with an evening of unity, celebration, and community spirit. The event, held at the publication’s headquarters, in Bradford welcomed guests from all faiths—and none—embracing the true meaning of Diwali: hope, light, and togetherness.
The headquarters was transformed into a dazzling space adorned with gleaming lights and traditional Indian seating arrangements. Guests enjoyed a sumptuous vegetarian buffet catered by Mumbai Bites, complemented by a dessert table filled with Indian sweets, savouries, and cakes.
The event aimed to foster connection and inclusivity, providing a space for businesses and community members to meet face-to-face, away from the divisive and often negative atmosphere of social media.
Fatima Patel, Editor-in-Chief of Asian Standard, shared, “In times where division and hate are prevalent, it is vital to create spaces that bring people together. This event was about celebrating the contributions of the Hindu community while embracing diversity and unity.”
Sid Amin of La Romantica Beds commended the initiative, saying, “Thank you to Fatima Patel and the Asian Standard team for inviting me to a fantastic Diwali dinner and networking event. It’s always fantastic to attend such a diverse and inclusive event.”
Cllr Ishtiaq Ahmed echoed this sentiment: “Thank you, Fatima Patel, for a wonderful evening of celebration and networking. Keep up the good work.”
Dharmesh Mistry, a community police officer representing the Hindu community, remarked, “Spent a wonderful evening with Fatima Patel and her team, hosting a special Diwali celebration. We met some great people networking… oh, and the grub was amazing.”
Dr Manoj Joshi MBE DL of Britannia Care expressed his admiration, saying: “Congratulations to Asian Standard for taking the initiative and being the first to celebrate Diwali in such an inclusive and meaningful way. The thoughtful provision of delicious vegetarian food reflected the warmth and hospitality of Asian Standard. I hope this exemplary initiative will be emulated by many others in the City and District.”
Sabra Kader, Director of Mumbai Bites, reflected on the joy of catering for the occasion: “It was an absolute joy to cater for Asian Standard’s Diwali party. I’m glad my team delivered on the brief of a full vegetarian buffet. Above all, it was a wonderful evening, meeting great people. Well done to Asian Standard for bringing everyone together.”
The event saw a diverse range of attendees, including TV Doctor Amir Khan and Mama Khan, representatives from Pennine Academies and the University of Bolton, Sandeep Kapoor of Newcastle’s award-winning Spice FM Radio station, and even Asian Standard’s office poodle, Luna Motin, who added a touch of charm to the evening.
Asian Standard hopes to host similar events in the future, staying true to its ethos of fostering connections and bridging communities. “Creating opportunities for people to come together in celebration and collaboration is at the heart of what we do,” said the Editor of Asian Standard.
The inaugural Diwali networking event has set a high bar, proving that light, hope, and community spirit can truly thrive when people come together.
